I was subtly trying to point out the fact that I don't think any of the gentlemen who would show up at a meeting like this will want to book me... They already would have.I said it more as a reality point to the thread and what is being asked to be planned.
I might chose to go to something like this just out of curiosity. But from what I have come to understand of events like this. Part of the cover charge at the door goes twords incentive also for providers to make an appearance, even if it isn't much. It takes time out of their day they would be available for others, with no guarantee of securing further earnings that night.
The providers at these events don't just happen to show up unexpectedly. Maybe, but I highly doubt it. If it is just for exposure, without any compensation, this type of event is likely to just become a sausage fest with maybe 5 providers making an appearance.
Everything you're saying is accurate. I wouldn't go to a meeting with potential clients unless I knew more providers were coming, which would bring clients who are outside of this group.. which won't happen without compensation





